What NOT to Say to a Stressed-Out Parent & 1 Way to Help
Ever have one of those weeks that just do not seem to end? You have a lot on your plate with the kids, and sh*t at home and stuff at work and you just find every muscle in your back and neck to be so tight it hurts? Stressed-out parenting likely happens to us all at one point or another — depending on your situation, you may be in the ‘stress zone’ more then others.
It’s never fun. It’s always pretty crappy and sometimes all you can do is grin and vent to fellow parents who should, at least in some way, be able to commiserate. This parenting gig is not easy and we should all be able to vent about the stresses as much as we brag about the awesome.
If you have a friend who seems to be super stressed out right now, there are some things that you should totally not say — unless you want to be a huge reason for their stress.
Click through for 10 things you should NOT say to a stressed-out parent and the 1 thing you should say:
-
You Look Like You Need a Break
It's just kind of obvious, isnt' it? You should be asking how you can help, not commenting on how they look like they want to rip out their hair.
Photo credit: photostock -
Just Wait Until They Are Older
If it's going to get worse, we don't want to know right now.
Photo credit: photostock -
This Too Shall Pass
Cheesy cliche phrases won't make things easier - it just boils the blood.
Photo credit: photostock -
You Look Like You Have Your Hands Full
Um ... duh? Wanna help? No, okay then.
Photo credit: photostock -
Try To Enjoy It
Enjoy the screaming, fighting, sleeplessness, no time to out my feet up? Maybe as much as I enjoy a root canal...
Photo credit: photostock -
Maybe If You (had a better routine, got them to sleep earlier)
No one likes unsolicited advice, especially when it looks like they are barely holding in.
Photo credit: photostock -
I Would Beat My Kids If They Acted That Way
When a parent is stressed out, they don't want to be told that you would be handling it much easier... or differently.
Photo credit: photostock -
You Don't Seem That Busy
Ah, the phrase that many parents are told by non-parents. Never, ever a good idea.
Photo credit: photostock -
I Would Trade Places With You
Dude, I dare you...
Photo credit: photostock -
Can You Do This For Me?
Do not ask for more... or at least wait until the hair is not being pulled out.
Photo credit: photostock -
What You SHOULD SAY: Have a Glass, or Three
Offer to help man! Bring them a cookie or a glass (or three) of wine.
Photo credit: photostock
:: What helps you when you’re feeling stressed out? ::
More on Babble Kids:
How to tell it’s time for a Mommy Break
10 Storage Ideas for Your Kids’ Stuffed Animals
10 Super Foods Your Kids Should Be Eating Now
Read more from Devan on Accustomed Chaos & Unspoken Grief
Follow Devan on Facebook and Twitter for all updates!
Want more? Find me on Being Pregnant & Babble Pets!
Get the latest updates from Kid Scoop - Like Us on Facebook!
Photo credit: modified from photostock
I have 3 kids with autism and a dog and a cat. I tell others ” I am clean out of my mind. I lost a years worth of memory after each child, I am numb from the neck up, I am raising 7 kids (4 kids, 2 pets and 1 husband) “. As for above statements I have heard them all and no the above statements do not stop they continue on a weekly basis. Don’t get me wrong, I love all of them, but for my humor I say things like “thats my girl; they made an a** out of me; just to keep myself and others (family and friends) in a good mood and happy.
melissa